Practicing Present Moment Awareness

“Be here now. Be someplace else later. Is that so difficult?” - David Bader

Yes, sometimes it is so difficult! Especially for those of us with demanding jobs, family responsibilities, and plans for our future. But practicing present moment awareness can help quiet the mind and cultivate a sense of internal peacefulness.

Lao Tzu said:

“If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present.”

Have you ever been with a close friend, or doing something you love, but your mind was busy thinking about the past or future? When we are too busy planning to enjoy the present moment, we are missing out on the only moment in life that is guaranteed.

To practice present moment awareness, all we must do is pay attention. Pay attention to the sensations in your body, to your sound or feeling of your breath, or to the thoughts and emotions arising in the mind. With practice you can expand your present moment awareness and find more quiet and peacefulness.